Torn Away, developed by Perelesoq and published by OverGamez on consoles, is an emotionally charged narrative-driven adventure that delves into the harrowing experiences of a young girl named Asya during the tumultuous backdrop of World War II. It’s one that caught our eye a few years ago as well, when we met with the developer. Set against a backdrop of war, Torn Away invites players to navigate through a poignant tale of survival and how resilient the human spirit can be.
The premise of Torn Away is both compelling and heartbreaking in how the story plays out. Players assume the role of Asya, a young girl torn from her home in Stalingrad amidst the chaos of war. With her father drafted into the military and her mother struggling to cope with the reality of it all, Asya embarks on a dangerous journey across Germany and Poland in a desperate attempt to reunite with her family. Asya’s story is conveyed with a delicate balance of sensitivity and creativity, offering players a glimpse into the innocence of a young girl that is being shattered by the ravages of conflict.
One of the standout features of Torn Away is its diverse gameplay mechanics, which blend seamlessly to enhance the storytelling experience. From side-scrolling platforming segments that form the heart of the gameplay to short sequences that play out in first-person, the game keeps players engaged through a variety of interactive elements. Mini-games add depth and immersion to the narrative, allowing players to connect with Asya’s world in a number of different ways.
Visually, Torn Away is a testament to artistic creativity and freedom in indie development. Its hand-drawn aesthetics, coupled with a distinct blend of 2D and 3D elements, create a captivating atmosphere that captures the essence of the wartime setting. Each scene or sequence is well-crafted to play into a range of emotions, from the warmth of spring to the harsh cold of winter, ensuring that players are fully immersed in Asya’s journey.
However, Torn Away is not without its flaws. With such a heavy emphasis on narrative, some of the gameplay mechanics are relatively simplistic or even repetitive, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, occasional issues include small animation quirks, but these are all just minor rough edges.
The voice acting adds an extra layer of authenticity to the storytelling, with an interesting option to play with a Russian dub to make things even more immersive. But while the soundtrack complements the mood of each scene effectively, it is relatively understated and may not stand out as being as memorable as the visual aspects of the game.
In conclusion, Torn Away is a poignant and impactful experience that transcends its gameplay limitations to deliver a powerful narrative journey. Through its evocative storytelling, immersive gameplay, and engaging visuals, it succeeds in capturing the toll that war takes on humans. Despite its minor shortcomings, Torn Away remains a compelling testament to the power of storytelling in gaming.
Score: 7.6/10
Press Play Media 